alumnus
noun
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Alumnus or Alumna?
Many people are comfortable using the word alumni to refer to someone who was a student of a particular school. However, others feel quite strongly that this is an error and that the following forms should be used: alumnus (for one male), alumni (for multiple males, or for a mix of males and females), alumna (for one female), and alumnae (for multiple females). The shortened form alum and its plural form alums began to be used in the 19th century. Initially, alum was widely viewed as highly colloquial or informal, but is increasing in use as a gender-neutral alternative.
Examples of alumnus in a Sentence
Kansas City Star, 4 Apr. 2026
Over the last couple of years, a number of public universities have closed or paused academic programs—moves that impact students, parents, faculty, staff, alumni and others—for financial reasons.
—Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 3 Apr. 2026
Two home runs in the sixth inning — by Willson Contreras off Michael King and by Eastlake High School alumnus Marcelo Mayer against Wandy Peralta — turned a tie game into Boston’s first victory since opening day.
—Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 3 Apr. 2026
But while Sabrina alumni like Hart are frequently seen in the public eye, Richert stepped away from acting after the fantasy sitcom came to a close in 2003.
—Shania Russell, Entertainment Weekly, 2 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for alumnus
Cite this Entry
“Alumnus.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/alumnus. Accessed 5 Apr. 2026.
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alumnus
noun
Latin, literally "foster son," from alere "to nourish" — related to alimentary, alma mater
